Driver ‘tried to run man over and kill him’

An attempted murder inquiry has been launched after a car was allegedly driven at a man in Livingston.

The incident happened at around 4pm on Saturday, when a Renault Clio narrowly avoided hitting the 45-year-old on the A71 between Newpark and Wilderness roundabouts.

Police said the man had been driving on the westbound carriageway when he and the driver were “involved in a number of minor collisions”.

Both vehicles pulled over but as the man exited his car the other motorist then allegedly drove his vehicle at speed - forcing him to jump out of the way.

The man who drove at the man is described as being around 18-years-old and was driving a blue-coloured Renault Clio.

Detective Constable Peter Budd said: “The irresponsible and thoughtless actions of the driver could have resulted in serious injury or even death and it is only thanks to the quick reactions of the victim that he managed to escape injury.

“I would urge anyone who was driving on the A71 at around 4pm on Saturday and who may have seen the Renault Clio either before or after this incident to please get in touch with police.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 or, alternatively in confidence via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.